Landlocked Laos has more beauty and a lot to offer. Small but enchanting cities, golden spired Buddhist temples, magnificent mountain sceneries, untouched hill-tribe villages, peaceful local lifestyles, and stunning Mekong River, a journey into Laos is a journey into an Asia long lost. Laos presents visitors with a beautiful travel experience, rich in atmosphere, natural beauty and Buddhist culture. Think of aromatic local markets and mouth-watering forays into local cuisine. The least populated of all Indochinese countries, many visitors to this unique land find it one of the most fascinating of all Asian destinations, and one which leaves them with memories of warm people. All together prove utterly charming for those who looking for a laid-back, memorable experience on a rural escape.
Begin with a visit to the morning market, to see unusual wares and foodstuffs for sale. Then, explore the Mines Advisory Group (MAG) visitor centre, which gives you an excellent introduction into the war-torn history of this region and showcases the unprecedented volume of munitions left in this area. You will then set out for the visit at the Quarry Phou Keng, Keng mountain is 1400 meters above sea-level, there are 1250 steps to get to the top. You will see VietCong secret tunnels & natural caves that locals used to shelter during the 2nd Indochina war.
Continue your exploration to the main Plain of Jars sites. Begin with a trip to site 2, one of the smaller sites, but with excellent surrounding views of the countryside. Site 3 is possibly the most beautiful jars site and is set atop a small rise, surrounded by scenic yet bomb-scarred rice paddies. After site 3, return in the direction of town to site 1, the most famous of all the jars sites. Here, the jars are largest and most numerous. You will leave this site wondering about the true purpose of these amazing stone urns.
This morning, drive to Muang Khoun town. In colonial days this hamlet was the capital of Xieng Khouang Province and was the site of a unique style of Buddhist temples (low-lying, to withstand strong winds), French administrative buildings, and a bustling market. It was also a centre of opium trading … During the secret war, the town was unfortunately the site of much conflict and was almost razed to the ground. Today, little remains of the old town, however the journey from Phonsavan (30 kilometers) passes through pretty countryside and adds depth to your stay in the area. You will see the standing ruinous remains of a sitting Buddha statue (at Wat Phia Wat), and the ravaged That Chomsi (famous for a hole through its base made by treasure-hunting thieves). Return to Phonsavan town airport for your flight back to Vientiane, you will be transferred to Vientiane and check in to your hotel.
